As for me, I couldn’t imagine working a job where every task is monotonous, where it’s the same thing every day. Many people dream of a career where the excitement of doing something you enjoy every day almost feels wrong. With graphic design, each day is different. Every project brings new challenges where you must work your brain to construct new and innovative ideas.
Since I can remember, I have loved anything art and design. Growing up, I would watch my dad create designs on the computer. I looked forward to it so much that I would even fake being sick so he could pick me up from school and I could watch him work at the sign shop. I would try to copy his designs by tracing them until he finally showed me how to use the software. These memories with my dad eventually kickstarted my desire to become a graphic designer myself – and one up him as best as I could.
From the time I’ve professionally worked as a graphic designer, here are my reasons why you should be a graphic designer:
You never stop learning. As a somewhat new graphic designer professionally, it’s vital to keep pushing myself to improve my skills and never stop learning. I find myself visiting YouTube or Google to understand further how to make images more compelling to the end user. New technologies and trends are arising and keep you on your toes.
Becoming a graphic designer requires knowledge about the software professionals use and its changes and updates! With an everchanging shift in looks, the most popular places to look for creative inspiration for me are Behance, Dribbble, and the plethora of graphic designers on Instagram. I make an effort to surround myself with inspiring images every day, whether with graphic design books or who I follow on social media.
Even though I am not in the office every day, I still ask my team for a fresh set of eyes. Looking at your work for several hours can change how you feel about it – almost like an attachment to it. Along with this, having other creatives work alongside you is a plus when it comes to sharing perspectives and constructive criticisms that provide meaningful insights.
With each client, we’re allowed to all hone in on our ideas with each other. We brainstorm as a group to develop an efficient idea or campaign. For me, the most exciting part of designing is sitting down and mapping out ideas when it comes to the inception of a new project. I sit down and doodle out my thoughts, even do a little research or word association to get my ideas rolling.
The road can be bumpy. Getting a design right the first time rarely occurs. But take this as an opportunity to learn how to take criticism professionally, not personally. In the end, getting it right, not just for yourself but for the project, is much more gratifying.
Seeing something that you created in the world is incredible. As scary as it is to hope you’d made it the most digestible and appealing content, knowing that you’d accomplished just that brings so much joy. Not only are you making cool things, but you’re getting paid to be creative! If you’re someone who enjoys working hard and seeing the outcome, being a graphic designer is the job for you.